Yesterday, the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) celebrated a significant milestone – 30 years since commencing operations on 1 June 1995.

The establishment of the ILSC was a landmark moment, born from a critical need to address historical injustices and provide tangible pathways for First Nations peoples to reclaim and manage their ancestral lands.

The Land Fund and Indigenous Land Corporation (ATSIC Amendment) Act 1995 formally established the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Fund and the ILSC (known as the Indigenous Land Corporation, or ILC, at the time), following the historic Mabo decision.

The establishment of the ILSC provided a dedicated and ongoing mechanism for land acquisition and management for First Nations peoples, distinct from the native title process.

This legislative foundation recognised the enduring connection of First Nations peoples to Country and the imperative for self-determination in its management.

Since 1995, the ILSC has worked in partnership with First Nations landholders to realise a shared vision of a prosperous and sustainable future for people on their Country. Over the past 30 years, the ILSC has invested more than $1.48 billion through 323 acquisition projects and 1,052 management projects.

These projects have delivered:

• Cultural revitalisation – Supporting the return of Country to Traditional Owners, facilitating cultural practices, protecting sites and strengthening intergenerational knowledge transfer.
• Economic development – Supporting the successes of Indigenous-owned enterprises across various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, and conservation, creating jobs and economic independence in remote and regional communities.
• Environmental stewardship – Enabling First Nations land and sea managers to continue or revive the implementation of traditional ecological knowledges alongside contemporary practices, leading to improved biodiversity, fire management, and land rehabilitation. This includes the Savanna Fire Management Program.
• Social connections – Providing secure land tenure for housing, community infrastructure, and health initiatives, contributing to improved well-being and community resilience.

ILSC Group Chief Executive Joe Morrison reflected on the past 30 years, pointing back to the countless positive outcomes achieved by the ILSC’s partners during this time.

“30 years ago, the ILSC was established with a clear mandate – to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in regaining the control and care of their Country,” said Mr Morrison.

“As we take a moment to pause and reflect, we are immensely proud of the collective achievements forged in partnership with First Nations communities across the nation. From vast land holdings supporting thriving Indigenous businesses to culturally significant sites returned to their rightful custodians, the impact of the ILSC’s work is tangible and enduring.”

The ILSC’s commitment to self-determination and community-led initiatives has been a cornerstone of its success. Its programs are designed to deliver the aspirations of land-holders, through building capacity, sharing skills, and generating sustainable outcomes that resonate for generations.

As the ILSC embarks on its next chapter, under the guidance of its National Indigenous Land and Sea Strategy (2023-2028), it remains dedicated to its mission, continuing to adapt and innovate to meet the evolving aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

ILSC Chair Ian Hamm echoed Mr Morrison’s words.

“Our 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a renewed commitment to the future,” said Mr Hamm.

“The ILSC will continue to partner with First Nations peoples, investing in their visions, and supporting their inherent rights to land and sea, ensuring a strong and vibrant future for all.”